If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Santa Ana, you need a Santa Ana car accident lawyer who understands how insurance companies work and won’t accept lowball settlement offers. DJA Injury Attorneys helps accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. Our founder has insider knowledge of insurance defense tactics from his years representing insurance companies. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover money for you. Call (949) 229-7228 today for a free consultation.
Why Choose DJA Injury Attorneys for Your Santa Ana Car Accident Claim
When you hire DJA Injury Attorneys, you get more than just legal representation. You get an attorney who understands how the other side thinks. Our founder, Jeff Schwalbach, spent years working in insurance defense before switching to represent injured people. This background helps him understand the tactics insurers use to minimize payouts. He uses that knowledge to fight for your rights.
Jeff is a Super Lawyers Rising Star, a recognition given to only 2.5% of attorneys in California. He has over 10 years of experience handling personal injury cases. He has recovered millions in settlements for clients. His track record includes securing $1.35 million for a college student with emotional injuries. He also secured $1 million in a minor impact rear-end accident. Additionally, he obtained $750,000 in a ride-share case where the insurer initially blamed our client for the accident.
We offer several advantages that set us apart:
- Available 24/7 for client consultations and emergencies
- Contingency fee basis—you pay nothing upfront
- Free case evaluations with no obligation
- Personalized attention from the principal attorney, not junior staff
- Track record of strong settlements for clients
How DJA Injury Attorneys Can Help After a Santa Ana Car Accident
After a car accident, the steps you take in the first hours and days matter. DJA Injury Attorneys helps you handle every stage of the process.
We begin by preserving important evidence before it disappears. This includes obtaining police reports. We photograph vehicle damage and the accident scene. We collect witness contact information. We secure any available video footage from traffic cameras or nearby businesses. We also coordinate with medical providers to ensure your injuries are properly documented. Understanding what evidence you need to prove fault is critical to building a strong case.
Next, we handle all communication with insurance companies. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions designed to minimize your claim. We make sure you don’t say anything that could hurt your case. We investigate liability thoroughly. We determine who was at fault. We gather evidence to support your claim. If the other driver’s insurance company disputes liability, we’re prepared to prove fault. We use expert analysis, accident reconstruction, and witness testimony.
We also coordinate with medical experts to document your injuries. We show how your injuries impact your life. We negotiate with insurance companies to reach a fair settlement. If they refuse to offer reasonable compensation, we prepare your case for trial. We are ready to litigate. Our approach to settlement negotiation ensures you receive fair compensation.
Types of Car Accidents We Handle in Santa Ana
Car accidents come in many forms. Each type presents unique challenges. DJA Injury Attorneys handles all types of motor vehicle accidents:
- Rear-end collisions
- Intersection accidents
- Drunk driving accidents
- Distracted driving accidents
- Head-on crashes
- Sideswipe collisions
- Rollover accidents
- Hit-and-run accidents
Santa Ana Car Accident Statistics and Local Context
Crash Data in Santa Ana
Santa Ana experiences significant traffic volume due to its location in Orange County and proximity to major highways. According to California Office of Traffic Safety data, motor vehicle accidents remain a leading cause of injury in the state. In 2021, California recorded 4,285 traffic fatalities, representing approximately a 10.7% increase from 2020. Approximately 1,370 of these deaths involved impaired driving, and 52.9% of drivers tested positive for drugs. The California Highway Patrol tracks these statistics through its Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System.
Common causes of car accidents in Santa Ana include speeding, distracted driving (including cell phone use), impaired driving, failure to yield right-of-way, and aggressive driving. Many accidents occur at busy intersections or on major thoroughfares where traffic moves at high speeds. Understanding common causes of accidents can help you avoid preventable collisions.
Local Courts and Legal Process
If your case proceeds to litigation, it will be handled through the Orange County Superior Court system. Santa Ana is the county seat of Orange County, and the main courthouse is located at 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
California law gives you two years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury lawsuit under California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. However, you should report your accident to your insurance company as soon as possible—ideally within 24-48 hours. Check your specific policy, as some insurers require reporting within 14 days or less, while others allow up to 30 days. Missing your policy’s deadline can result in claim denial or cancellation. Missing the statute of limitations deadline means you lose your right to recover compensation, so it’s important to contact an attorney promptly.
Nearby Medical Facilities
Immediate medical attention after an accident is important for both your health and your legal case. Santa Ana has several major medical facilities:
- Santa Ana Hospital Medical Center
- Orange County Global Medical Center
- Kaiser Permanente Santa Ana Medical Center
- Various urgent care centers throughout the city
Seeking medical treatment immediately after an accident creates a documented record of your injuries. This strengthens your claim. Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries like whiplash and internal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Learn more about what to do after an injury to protect your legal rights.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to catastrophic. Understanding the types of injuries that result from accidents helps explain why compensation is necessary.
Whiplash and neck injuries occur when the head and neck are suddenly jerked backward and forward. These injuries can cause chronic pain. They may require months of physical therapy.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Even mild TBIs can cause headaches, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes. These symptoms can persist for months or years. Learn more about understanding traumatic brain injury claims and compensation options.
Spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis. These catastrophic injuries require lifelong medical care. They significantly impact quality of life. Understanding spinal cord injury compensation is essential for victims.
Internal organ damage may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening. Bleeding in the abdomen, punctured lungs, and damaged organs require emergency surgery. Extended hospitalization is often necessary.
Fractures and broken bones heal, but recovery takes time. Severe fractures may require surgery. They can result in permanent disability or chronic pain.
Soft tissue injuries affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These injuries cause pain. They limit your ability to work and enjoy daily activities.
Psychological trauma and PTSD are real injuries that result from the fear and shock of an accident. Many accident victims experience anxiety, depression, and fear of driving after their accident.
What Damages Can You Recover in a Santa Ana Car Accident Case
California law allows you to recover several types of damages in a car accident case:
Medical expenses include all costs related to treating your injuries. This covers emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgery, physical therapy, and medications. You can also recover the cost of future medical treatment if your injuries require ongoing care.
Lost wages cover income you lost while recovering from your injuries. If your injuries prevent you from returning to work, you can recover lost earning capacity. This is the difference between what you would have earned and what you can now earn.
Property damage covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle. It also covers any other property damaged in the accident.
Pain and suffering compensate you for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injuries. This includes both past pain and suffering and future pain and suffering if your injuries are permanent. Understanding how personal injury compensation is calculated helps you understand your case value.
Mental anguish and emotional distress cover anxiety, depression, fear, and other psychological injuries. These result from the accident.
Permanent disability damages compensate you if your injuries result in permanent limitations. These limitations affect your ability to work or enjoy life.
Loss of enjoyment of life covers the impact of your injuries on your ability to participate in hobbies, sports, and other activities. You enjoyed these activities before the accident.
Loss of consortium compensates your spouse for the loss of companionship, intimacy, and support. These result from your injuries.
California’s Comparative Negligence Law and Your Case
California follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule. This means you can recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident. You must be less than 100% responsible. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you were 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you can recover $80,000. This is your $100,000 in damages reduced by your 20% share of fault.
Insurance companies often try to blame accident victims for accidents to reduce their liability. They may argue that you were speeding, distracted, or failed to see the other vehicle. Having an experienced attorney makes a difference. We investigate thoroughly to determine actual fault. We counter the insurance company’s arguments with evidence. Learn more about understanding partial fault in accidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Santa Ana?
California law gives you two years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, don’t wait until the last minute. Evidence disappears. Witnesses’ memories fade. The longer you wait, the weaker your case becomes. Contact DJA Injury Attorneys as soon as possible after your accident. Understanding the statute of limitations is critical to protecting your rights.
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Santa Ana?
First, check for injuries and call 911 if anyone needs medical attention. Move to a safe location if possible. Call the police and get a police report number. Take photos of vehicle damage, the accident scene, and any visible injuries. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Get names and phone numbers of witnesses. Seek medical attention even if you feel fine—some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately. Finally, contact DJA Injury Attorneys for a free consultation before speaking with insurance adjusters.
Will my case go to trial or settle?
Most car accident cases settle before trial. Insurance companies often prefer to settle rather than risk a jury verdict. However, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial. This approach increases settlement value because insurers know we’re ready to litigate. If the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we’re prepared to take your case to trial. Learn about what happens during a personal injury lawsuit trial.
How much does it cost to hire DJA Injury Attorneys?
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. There are no upfront costs, no hidden fees, and no hourly billing. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. This arrangement aligns our interests with yours. We only make money when you make money.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
California’s comparative negligence law allows you to recover even if you were partially at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 15% at fault, you can still recover 85% of your damages. Insurance companies often exaggerate your percentage of fault to reduce their liability. We investigate thoroughly and present evidence to minimize your percentage of fault. We work to maximize your recovery.
How long does a car accident case typically take?
Timeline varies based on case complexity and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Most cases resolve within 6 to 18 months. Some cases take longer if litigation is necessary. Your injuries may require extended treatment before we can accurately calculate damages. We keep you informed throughout the process. We work as efficiently as possible to resolve your case.
What evidence do I need to prove the other driver was at fault?
Police reports, witness statements, photos of vehicle damage and the accident scene, medical records, traffic camera footage, and expert analysis can all support your claim. We handle evidence gathering. We work with accident reconstruction experts if necessary. The more evidence we have, the stronger your case. We improve our negotiating position with the insurance company.
Can I still recover if the other driver left the scene?
Yes. Hit-and-run accidents are treated seriously under California law. If we can identify the other driver, we can pursue a claim against their insurance. If the other driver cannot be identified, your own uninsured motorist coverage may apply. Contact us immediately if you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident.
Contact DJA Injury Attorneys for a Free Santa Ana Car Accident Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Santa Ana, don’t wait to get legal help. Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers working to minimize your claim. You need an experienced attorney on your side.
Call (949) 229-7228 today for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to discuss your case. There’s no obligation, and you won’t pay anything unless we recover compensation for you. We serve Santa Ana and all surrounding areas in Orange County and Southern California.